Ian Poulter was reported to have spoken to the police after being involved in a row with a fan and a steward after shooting a disappointing 76 yesterday.

The English Ryder Cup player, famed for his outlandish clothes, was on his way to the clubhouse when the spectator allegedly shouted abuse at him. Poulter sought the assistance of a steward who instead of helping him, reprimanded the player.

"I can't say what the guy shouted at me, but it was pretty personal and inappropriate," said Poulter. "And it was offensive to be challenged by someone whose job it was to keep the public under control. Someone who should have been looking after the public gave me an ear bashing when this guy shouted."

Poulter, ranked No8 in the world, alleged the steward had accused him of "invading his space".

The 34-year-old from Hitchin has been involved in controversy before. At the Mercedes-Benz Championship in September 2007, he smashed a tee marker in a show of frustration and was fined. A year earlier, he had to pay a £5,000 fine after verbally abusing a marshal at the Irish Open.

He caused widespread resentment in 2008 when he was quoted in Golf World as saying: "Don't get me wrong, I really respect every professional golfer but I know I haven't played to my full potential and when that happens, it will be just me and Tiger".

Out on the course, Poulter failed to register a single birdie yesterday while collecting one double bogey and two bogeys. His 76 followed rounds of 71 and 73 in what has been a miserable Open Championship for him.